Noah production halted due to Hurricane Sandy

Darren Aronofsky directs this biblical fantasy epic which he also co-wrote and co-produced. The film is an adaptation of the story of Noah as he’s given a divine edict to build a great vessel to house animals and his family and save them from a watery natural disaster from God that will wipe out a sin-filled world. Russell Crowe stars as the title character, while Anthony Hopkins, Jennifer Connelly, Emma Watson & Ray Winstone play supporting roles.

Darren Aronofsky has cancelled all filming for the forthcoming movie - which is based on the biblical tale which sees the titular character build a huge ark to save everyone from a forthcoming flood - in New York City while cast members including Russell Crowe, Emma Watson and Sir Anthony Hopkins weather out the violent storm currently tearing up the East Coast of America.

The irony of the situation wasn't lost on Emma, who tweeted: ''I take it that the irony of a massive storm holding up the production of Noah is not lost @DarrenAronofsky @russellcrowe''.

Meanwhile, Oscar-winner Russell was passing time by indulging in a cup of British breakfast tea.

Director Darren is worried about the fate of his two giant purpose-built arks, one inside a Brooklyn sound stage, the other moored in New York's Oyster Bay where flooding and wind gusts of up to 63 mph have been reported.

Production was scheduled to finish soon so the outdoor ark - which is not sea-worthy and measures 450 feet long, 75 feet tall and 45 feet wide - has been partially dismantled.

But it is feared costly repairs could be necessary, the Los Angeles Times newspaper is reporting.